This bill introduces a new chapter, CHAPTER 3.4, titled "Electronic Registration and Titling," to Title 31 of the General Laws concerning motor vehicles. It authorizes the division of motor vehicles (DMV) to implement electronic systems for lien, titling, and registration processes, enabling business entities and financial institutions to handle transactions electronically. The bill mandates that applications for registration certificates and titles be submitted electronically, with exceptions for business entities that submit fewer than twenty-five transactions annually. It outlines procedures for the electronic transmission of liens and lien satisfactions, ensuring that a clear certificate of title is issued only after all liens are satisfied.

Additionally, the bill allows the division to create a secure digital vehicle title system that offers vehicle title holders a fully paperless, secure digital title, providing online, real-time access to motor vehicle titles and their status. A secure digital vehicle title produced under this chapter is regarded as an official vehicle title from the State of Rhode Island and is fully transactable within the state and all other U.S. jurisdictions.

The bill also amends existing laws related to the transfer of vehicles, allowing for electronic forms and requiring that mileage information be accurately recorded. It specifies that the new certificate of title can be provided electronically or printed, and includes provisions for electronic signatures on required forms. The administrator of the division of motor vehicles is tasked with promulgating rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this chapter. The first section of the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2027, while the second section will become effective upon the implementation of the new electronic systems by the division of motor vehicles.

Statutes affected:
7452: 31-23.2-6